We Had to Make a Heart-Breaking Decision 💔

We will love you always, Rocko.
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217 CEDAR STREET 401
SANDPOINT, ID 83864
MY BIRDS (Oldest to Youngest) 🐦❤
BONDI 💗 Galah | hatched 2005
CRESSI 💗 Congo African Grey | hatched 2007
BANDIT 💙 Galah | hatched 2008-2019 💔
JINX 💙 Blue Throat Macaw | hatched 2008
COMET 💙 Yellow-Dominant Camelot Macaw | hatched 2008
TUSA 💙 Blue-Green Dominant Camelot Macaw | hatched 2008
ROCKO 💙 Toco Toucan | hatched 2011-2022 💔
LILY & PHOEBE & DETKA 💗 Sun Conures | hatched 2011
BLUEBERRY 💗 Budgie | hatched June 2019
😍 ABOUT US 😍
BirdTricks is a husband-wife team; Dave and Jamieleigh Womach specialize in parrot training and companionship.
#toucans #toucansaspets #tocotoucan

[@jennigthatonecrazydoglady8100]

I’m so, so sorry for your loss. I’ve had to make that impossible decision myself and it is... well, there are no words. Rocko was so loved by so many. And he was excellently cared for by you, including the way you cared enough to end his suffering. He’ll live on in hearts, memories, videos, and most importantly in the lives of all the other Toucans who will be better cared for because of him. We love that handsome can!

[@mone4910]

Well said! 💜

[@mariarivera1340]

Yup couldn’t have said it better my man

[@cathleenmanna3473]

I’m so sorry for this heart breaking day. No words can express the pain your feeling. Poor Rocko. He lived a beautiful life of love, truly and fully. God Bless. Be comforted. 😢🌹💞

[@ceciliaross2008]

I too had to let my baby go. That was 3 years ago. I still can't talk about it without crying. I had her 18 years. You are truly brave. Beautiful soul. God bless you. You did everything you could. Everything right. I'll pray for your grief

[@margaretpittman2914]

I believe U have Said everything we all would if we had the words U gave. What a touching story. Myself...I have had birds, little ones, and time passes and we all pass and move on. I still see my now, Spirit Birds, at times and as I delight in our visits I wouldn't trade anything for the most loving experience I have and had. Now, I have a young one - once more🐥...a Most loving, living, experience to grow with🌺

[@clcreations9634]

This killed me to watch. I was a vet tech for 10 years and have seen alot of sad situations. I always felt that animals know when you're sad and they will do what they can to cheer you up, giving false hope but just shows how much they love you and want to make you happy. I'm so sorry for your loss, hugs to you and your family

[@barliegirl5374]

He’s flying high and playing hard in the unimaginable beauty of heaven. No more pain. No more sickness. He’s free. 🥰

[@blackwolf9524]

So sweet....& True! 🙏🕊️

[@barliegirl5374]

@@JamesGallagher90 I am so sorry for your disbelief.

[@hf0773]

In Jesus name we all pray. Amen 🙏

[@kinglunarchy9417]

@@JamesGallagher90 I don’t believe in heaven either but that’s really disrespectful to say

[@cursedGalataea]

After death, you remember your loved one, but they don't remember you. I understand why people wish this wasn't true.

[@leahdresser2290]

It both broke and warmed my heart to see how happy Rocko was when you visited him, how he fed himself and played for the first time since he'd been there. He obviously loved you so much, and it was the kindest decision to let him go while he was feeling that love and comfort. The hardest decision, but the kindest. I wish every pet owner treated their animals with the same love and care that you do. Rest in paradise Rocko, and may you and your family find peace in this difficult time. ❤️❤️❤️

[@jasminemartinez5645]

She is so freakin dramatic and pathetic. She didn’t even care about her dumb bird. Pathetic

[@2412alexandra]

@@jasminemartinez5645 what makes you say that?

[@jasminemartinez5645]

@@2412alexandra it’s true

[@SaltyD3plorable]

@Jasmine Martinez wow who pissed in your corn flakes? And exactly how tf would you know anything about how she felt about her bird. For a stranger on the internet you sound salty AF. Maybe get some help.....🙄

[@TamaraKane]

@@jasminemartinez5645 it's really inappropriate to speak to other human beings that way. Do you think that added anything positive? If your purpose is to inflict harm or abuse, how does that benefit you? Jamieleigh and Dave are loving kind people who have done more for animals and their carers than you could possibly know. They're also very forgiving. Your hate-fueled comments won't harm them longterm, but I have to think someday you'll look back on this moment and regret saying something awful. If and when that happens, I hope you'll be able to forgive yourself, grow, and learn to treat others the way you want to be treated. I am so sorry for whatever happened in your life to cause you such brutally toxic feelings, but those feelings don't have to always be part of you. You can let them go. You probably won't read this with any sort of grace, and that's fine, but you need to hear from more people that your response here was not normal, and not healthy. If you feel like lashing out, go right ahead. There's nothing you can say that will damage anyone here because we are helpers and our hearts are full. Our lives have meaning and purpose. I hope you find yours someday, and that it isn't inflicting harm. If you have a strong voice, you could be a strong voice for good. Think about it. Think about it all your life. It feels much more rewarding to be kind. If you're around toxic people who treat you poorly, reach out to others who can help you. If you're trolling, alright. The world takes all kinds. I wish the people you encounter all the best in dodging your sudden outbursts, but know this. Bird handlers survive cockatoo divebombs to the face and go right on learning about, protecting, and loving these animals, so complaints on internet comment sections are like butterfly kisses by comparison. Be well.

[@Lewisiaisoutofcontext]

I'm so incredibly sorry for your loss. You did the right thing, letting him go to sleep now and not let him get worse. I've worked as a vet tech since 2018 and I know just how hard it is to say goodbye to a pet, but the most ethical thing you can do as an owner is letting them go before they are suffering too much. Still, my heart aches every single day when we have to say goodbye to one of our little ones, no matter if we just met them or if we had them as patients for 20 years. I recently quit my job to go back to vet school and pursue a degree specialising in exotic veterinary medicine. I want to do so much more, understand so much more and learn and teach so much more, and as hard as it is for those of us who loved him, what happened to Rocko will help us understand this condition in other birds and may even help save countless others in the future. Rest in peace Rocko, and all the love in the world to you and your family in these hard times. ❤

[@FloridasWildest]

We are so incredibly sorry for you loss

[@mia_ribbit3547]

4 likes and no replys??? Wow

[@elizabethlopezmarchese7219]

We truly are sorry for your loss. May he rest in peace

[@jasminemartinez5645]

Someone need to call animal control and the cops.

[@jasminemartinez5645]

Dramatic

[@jasminemartinez5645]

Dramatic

[@heatherwilliamsbuell3232]

I'm so sorry, Jamie. Rocko will be missed. Go on knowing that he had a life filled with love. You're an amazing Mom to your bird babies. Much love to you, Dave, and Capri. Thank you for sharing Rocko and all your babies with us.

[@stephandpets]

I’m sure he knew he was loved, and I think that’s why he was so happy and played when he saw you. It’s very brave of you to donate his body and his data to research. Thank you for helping birds, including other toucans. I only have pet birds, don’t even do freeflight, and wood honestly never consider getting a toucan, but his videos have been really fascinating nonetheless. RIP Rocco. Condolences to you all. Losing a pet never gets easier.

[@prettybird9215]

Would*

[@spacemonkey7380]

This randomly popped up in my recommendations and it moved me to tears. Thank you so much for contributing to a better understanding of these precious birds. Sending you strenght and my best wishes all the way from Germany. I am so sorry for your loss.

[@RenataMonteiroL]

As a pet owner, I can't even imagine to have to make a decision like that. Painful, but mature decision. You are amazing! I'm really really sorry for your loss. Stay strong

[@pamelamorris3148]

I'm surprised that you've never had to make this decision as you say that you're a pet owner. I have never met or heard anyone that's had pets all their lives not have to make that decision at one time or the other with a beloved pet. You are blessed.

[@Sakura0754]

If you own pets it's inevitable. The worst part is it never gets easier 😔

[@jmac7133]

Never, but as someone else said, they bring us as much joy as they do sadness(when they leave) I have a neighbor that lost her 3 older dogs within a few months, they actually all died at home, so she did not have to have them euthanized, therefore she did not have to decide.

[@AntsCanada]

So sorry for your loss, guys! RIP Rocko! 🙏

[@fluffball3085]

Poor rocky 💔😭 breaks my heart!

[@silviodiaz9919]

I’m so sorry 😢

[@Jamie_McElroy]

It’s very kind of you to express your condolences. You are also an animal lover I look up to.

[@MS-vw6vj]

Mikey? Realy? I cant believe this...

[@loin22co]

i watch you channel

[@0-by-1_Publishing_LLC]

Losing any of these beautiful birds is absolutely devastating. It knocks us down so low that we wish we could just join them wherever they've gone. It's an indescribable level of internal sadness that defies all understanding. They are tantamount to living, breathing "angels," and all we can do is our very best to be good stewards while graced with their presence.

[@shaunamoore1382]

We are so, so sorry for your loss. As a fellow toucan (aracari) owner, we feel for you in just how little information there really is out there for toucans in relation to diet and in general in the avian veterinarian community. But we super appreciate you sharing everything along the way in the end journey with Rocko. Every tiny bit of information is important to the bigger picture of toucan husbandry as a whole. Much love to you guys from us and our own 'crazy can'.

[@captainsarcasm1567]

He looked like such a sweet little toucan. it's so sad that it had to come to this and it's always hard to make these decisions, but a good owner will do whats right for their pets. It's good it was able to be done when he was feeling radiating love and surrounded by his people.

[@pricklythepearcat6807]

I can tell that he was so happy to have you there with him, he started to feed himself. It’s really sad to see him go even if this is the first time I’ve heard of him. I really hope he gets to go to an afterlife where he can be happy and healthy and free

[@imle9279]

It's so unfair to the toucans in captivity when we don't know basically anything about them. I'm glad that Rocko is playing a role in helping us understand these wonderful birds a bit more. He was and is an angel, and he'll help so many other toucans. I'm so sorry for your loss, and Rocko won't ever be forgotten. R.I.P little rockstar, you were a fighter till the bitter end❤

[@TrashyQuery]

@@SobrietyandSolace it's very difficult because birds have different glucose management than humans. Yes it's common sense to not load them up, but you can also do significant damage by depriving them of the carbohydrates they need to power their brains and organs. Birds require 3 times as much glucose in their systems than mammals can tolerate. It's really not easy. And why keep an animal alive if you know it'd be traumatic and have low quality of life?

[@SobrietyandSolace]

@@TrashyQuery It was the kindest thing to do in the end and there is definitely a middle ground between feeding the very highest simple carb loaded foods you can and completely depriving them of sugars. Yeah I know she posted the recommended ranges for the species in the description. Grapes are especially a bad idea seeing a there is very little in the way of fibre to slow down the absorption of sugar??? I don't meet diagnostic criteria for diabetes yet grapes will routinely send me way over 200 ! Plus why did they not use a glucometer to check them 3 times a day? Until you can get a permanently installed meter/pump the next best thing is taking regular readings? I don't know anything other than high school level biology and just keep quail so am no bird expert but this woman gives out nutritional advice to bird owners so for this to be my first introduction to her channels I'm banging my head against the wall. I know she is suffering enough as it is with the loss but I can't wrap my head around this...

[@user-jb1mb5xh9t]

@@SobrietyandSolace "I don't know anything other than high school biology and only keep a quail" and yet you think you know more than medical experts & a tropical bird keeper,,,,,

[@IMakePeopleSaltyApparently]

@@SobrietyandSolace kinda hard when fruit is their main diet.

[@exist4046]

@@SobrietyandSolace I believe blood pressure for birds is also extremely different, and their whole bodies are extremely different too depending on the bird. Alongside that, Toucans being kept in captivity is a relatively newer thing besides in zoos, so their specified care isn't entirely known, so between that and the specific animal being a special needs animal (one that would never survive in the wild due to the usual nutritional needs that Toucans are observed to have), it's super difficult to actually know what is best for a bird like this. Fuck, I didn't even know birds COULD be diabetic! Even a hella trained professional could make mistakes caring for a bird like this. Overall, I really don't think she "should have known better". She COULD have, had there been some sort of known info about caring for specifically diabetic toucans, but there really doesn't seem to be much on that specific subject at all.

[@crystalheart9]

Oh I'm so sad and heartbroken to hear of Rocko's passing. He was so special and you did a great job taking the best care of him. Much love and hugs to you all and all of your birds. 💙💜🤎🖤🤍🤎💙💚💛🧡❤💖

[@emilily1991]

I'm so glad capri is there with you for moral support. Sending big hugs to all of you!!! Rocco is in birdy heaven where he is happy and healthy!!

[@outdoors-um9pi]

Was it the Toucan? Tongue issue? I've only watched a couple so far. Sad regardless!.I love all birds!

[@derind9191]

@@outdoors-um9pi the toucan died from diabetes.

[@DandyT1990]

I'm glad Capri was there to say goodbye herself...I remember as a child her age not being able to say goodbye to pets and it's heartbreaking

[@outdoors-um9pi]

@@derind9191 thanks, I'm new to her site, I HATE losing any animals, I'm alone no kids and pets are my world!

[@vickibrowne975]

I came across this page by accident, in the few minutes I've watched your videos, I fell in love with Rocko. His gentle nature and the love you gave him was beautiful. I'm so very sorry for your loss. No matter what animal, heart break feels the same 💔

[@jessicabalducci6214]

It's so heartbreaking but also sweet how you can tell he's not really wanting to eat but he did it just because he can tell you are worried and wants to make you feel better poor baby he loves you so much and he knows you love him too

[@kalehead0075]

Oh Jamie, I’m so sorry. You gave Rocko the absolute best life possible. Sending you and your family big love.

[@saraasmr5200]

I’ve just found your channel, and I’m so sorry for your loss. Your decision to donate Rocko’s body to research is such a selfless decision. His life was and will continue to be so meaningful with how much new information was learned from his case. His impact on avian healthcare will be seen for many years to come ❤️

[@carissathechinmom6174]

I hope you know that you did absolutely everything in your power to give him the best life possible as well as a humane death. He passed away happy, next to his favorite people on the world. You are an amazing owner, Jamie. Praying for comfort during this time of grief for your baby ❤️ so hard to even think about a pet not being around anymore. And it is not crazy at all to save those mementos! I would absolutely do the same. Love you guys and think about you all ❤️

[@marielierodriguez265]

Words can't described the pain we feel when we loose them. A huge hug to all of you! you did great and more!!!

[@Elizabeth-rp1pi]

LOSE. When we LOSE them.

[@Dogtraining1784]

Aww poor guy!! Hes now in a better place where theres no more pain and suffering. Im so sorry for u. Cried with ya. I have a pigeon i rescued and i cant imagine losing her

[@adriennetriplett7537]

It is always the hardest decision when we have to let a pet go. You made his life the best it could possibly be. My heart is breaking for you, Dave and Capri. Internet hugs. RIP Rocco.

[@seatherny_y]

Thats terrible. Jamie you were a amazing bird mom, owning a toucan is hard work and you did great. Rocks had a amazing life, I’m so proud of him. Your such a great bird momma, your feather babies must be so happy. Much hope and love to you Capri and Dave,i cant express how sad i feel for you. I cried so hard at this knees I’m so sorry.

[@patrickgragg5602]

She still has a flock and thank God for that comfort!!

[@Lilly-uj6ov]

As I sit here and cry along side you, know that your family and your gorgeous Rocko lives inside the hearts of many. Thank you so much for your knowledge and willingness to share.

[@jamesmckenzie4556]

Watching this was the first I had seen of Rocco (I’m new to the channel) but it still had me bawling with you. I’m sure he knew just how much he was loved and appreciated everything you did for him. His story has touched so many people here. He’ll be remembered and loved for a long time to come Im sure.

[@codename495]

It’s sad and painful but the beautiful part is that you placed his comfort above your own. You showed him love and care and strength and that’s beautiful.

[@wildside306]

Crying along with you, this is such a hard experience but wow, what an amazing thing you and Rocko have done for all captive Toucans, now and in the future. This was very moving on many levels. Sending love.

[@jeymileal-lovessora]

I’m so sorry for your loss he’s in a better place he’s flying high up in that beautiful rainforest that is up in heaven he will always be watching you and your family he will love you always he’s always in your heart discovered your channel when I lost my pet hamster sora he passed from respiratory infection 2 years ago my heart dropped when I saw your notification I literally cried when I watched the video

[@Ariies]

So sorry for everything. That is an incredibly hard decision to make. I would like to commend you on your courageous decision to donate the body as well. I couldnt imagine how hard that is. As sad as this story is, it will benefit the research and future for birds and toucans. Thank you for sharing this.

[@lilifel]

Animals they break our heart as much as they make us happy ❤️‍🩹

[@connectionoflivesandinterests]

*I'm balling my eyes out for you & I understand about keeping the Kleenex box. Hugs & prayers. Sorry for your loss. Rocko will continue to touch lives & make a difference to many. Blessings and prayers. 🦜🦜🦜* Sharon in SC

[@10191927]

I remember when you guys first got Rocko all those years ago and were some of your earliest videos, he was a very special bird and I’m glad he was able to touch so many lives through education and awareness. RIP Rocko, you are missed.

[@yummyapplestroodle]

This was so heartbreaking, fly free Rocko

[@lisamcdonald8595]

Crying with you right now! What a star Rocko was! Thank you for sharing what would have been a very difficult journey in the last few months. Rocko's passing will not be in vain. Your dedication to these wonderful creatures is inspiring and I want to thank you for the love and care you extend to them. You went above and beyond for this little guy and I think he loved you for it! Sending virtual hugs to you all from Australia x

[@flamingo6175]

I’m so sorry for your loss 💔 I bawled my eyes out watching this video. I think Rocko made it through that final night in order to see you one last time. It was amazing that you were able to be there for him at the end and he was able to pass peacefully knowing he was loved ❤️

[@jillmcintyre2144]

I’m sitting here pouring my eye out 😭😭😭 You done the right thing and we can see how hard this dissection was for you. R.I.P Rocko 🥰❤️

[@sallywhite7678]

Sending love and prayers to you, Jaime, from Sally White and her four cats in Atlanta, Georgia. We share your grief. I’ve had to do this with precious cats I’ve had: when their quality of life goes down, and they are not the same, it’s their way of saying they are “ready”, not afraid, and they will love you forever from Eternity. ❤️🐈

[@heatherwolf4551]

Trying to clear the tears to type this, my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Sharing this must have been so hard, but in doing so, you are continuing your mission to save birds, one person at a time. Rocko had the best life. Thank you.

[@bearbearjay]

Oh Jamie and family, so so sorry for your loss. Rocko was a legend. Thank you for sharing him with us. R.I.P Rocko God bless, sleep tight. ❤❤

[@pearls_leaf]

Rocko was outstanding, and quite the beautiful toucan with unique personalities. I am so very sorry for your loss. Rest in peace Rocko 💖

[@NeverlandK_]

This was the most heart breaking thing ive had to watch, I’m so sorry for your loss. Ive lost some babies in the past year or so and know how hard this is, I bawled my eyes out during the entire video. Sending you so much love during this time ❤️

[@UsernamesForDummies]

It’s so hard to let a pet go, but putting his well-being over your own is the true meaning of love. I had to put my cat down 4 weeks ago and it was heart-wrenchingly painful, but I never wanted her to suffer. Every tear you shed is a declaration of love.

[@kristinen7611]

I'm sorry Jamie. Rocko was a special bird and so privileged to be in your family. You did everything you could. I'm glad they will continue to learn from his illness to help others. Bless you and your family and flock.

[@laurenCC489]

I found your channel only a few videos ago when you first were talking about him having diabetes. Your love for your birds shines through even in the short amount of time I've spent watching your videos. I'm so sorry for your loss, take solace that he is no longer suffering and will be waiting for you in the place where all good pets go until we meet them again

[@lelew2308]

I’m so so sorry. I know the feeling that comes with making the decision to free your babies. I’m sending hugs

[@Lovestolvlup]

My heart broke with you while I watched him struggle, and your deep love for this guy.

[@goldengirl54]

My heart is broken for you. 😭💔 He was letting you know it was okay for you to let him cross the Rainbow Bridge. Sweet Soul. 💙 He'll be an ambassador to the Toucan species and helping future Toucan research. Proud of Rocko and of you. Love, Light, and Hugs 💚

[@graceslittlefilms9358]

stumbled across your videos of Rocco at 1am, headed over here to see his story. Fell in love with him, what a sweet soul. You make the right decision, you did the best thing for him. RIP sweet Rocco

[@barwench]

I am so incredibly sorry for such a heartbreaking, earth shattering loss. Rocko was an amazing bird, the love and dedication towards him and your flock hasn't gone unnoticed. He will be missed by all.

[@potatopeeler9728]

I’m so incredibly sorry for your loss. Rocko was and will always be a beautiful soul. You did right by him and provided him with the best care that anyone could give him and you should be proud of that. Everything you are doing is to honour Rocko and through it, Rocko will help save the lives of so many other toucans. Thank you for all that you are doing - stay strong: sending lots of love and prayers for Rocko’s soul and your healing journey 💓

[@awesomekoga7848]

I’m bawling like a baby. This is so sad. Thank you for sharing Rocko with us. Our condolences to you and those who love & care for him. This brought back memories of our cat, Kallie. She had heart failure and was drifting in & out if consciousness. The vet said there’s nothing they could do and that she was probably in pain. We decided to end her misery. We stayed with her and held her as the vet put her down. It was the hardest thing we ever had to do and it never gets easier. Right now my service dog has a really bad heart murmur which requires daily medication. I pray that when it’s his time to go, he goes peacefully in his sleep.

[@Firefoxes85]

That’s so sad I’m so sorry 😭🥺😣

[@dasheast1]

Heart breaking for you, Jamie, and your family. What a special guy he was and hopefully the world will be better from learning of his life and how he got sick, helping many toucans in captivity in the future 😢💔

[@tellxmebby1]

Thank you for sharing all of this information and Rocko's whole story, as hard as it has been. This information will be invaluable going forward for his species and avian medicine in general. Thank you also for consistently making the best decisions by him and for him. As hard as it is to lose a member of the family, it's so nice to be able to make the decision that allows them the least amount of suffering. You did absolutely everything you could for him and are doing the world an invaluable service by sharing his diagnosis and story and testing and information so publicly.

[@birdspace]

You did everything you could. Thank you for sharing him with us. R.I.P Rocko God bless, sleep tight.

[@diabolicaldebacle]

It's almost like you can tell he's telling her he's tired around the 9 minute mark. My heart breaks for you, you can tell how much he loves her.

[@h.calvert3165]

I'm not a bird person, & I've never heard of you both before right now. But I burst into tears when you said you had to put him down & started to cry. Been there with my cats in the past, & I truly feel your pain. You did the brave, kind, responsible thing. God bless you both, & I feel certain you will meet again at the end of your own life. 🦜

[@marwahzagzoug9405]

My heart breaks for you Jamie. Sending thoughts, love, and deepest condolences to you, Dave, and Capri. You gave Rocko the best life ever and he gave us so many adorable moments of smiles and silliness. He was a total rockstar and he gave the community so much knowledge and data that will help us understand and do more for toucans. Rocko loved you so very much and is resting peacefully now. Fly high Rocko and thank you for everything you taught us. Your legacy lives on and is respectfully valued in the scientific and avian community.

[@KikiYushima]

Oh no Jamie, I'm so sorry... Making that decision is never easy, but when their quality of life is non-existent, it's always kinder to let them go peacefully. Here's the poem you shared for others when Bandit died, so I'll give it back to you. "I'll lend you, for a little while, a bird of mine," He said. "For you to love while he lives, and mourn when he is dead. It may be six or seven years, or maybe twenty-three, But will you, till I call him back, take care of him for me? He'll bring his charms to gladden you, and shall his stay be brief, You'll have his lovely memories as solace for your grief. I cannot promise he will stay, as all from Earth return, But there are lessons taught down there I want this bird to learn. I've looked the whole world over in my search for teachers true, And from the throngs that crowd life's lanes, I have selected you. Now will you give him all your love - not think this labor vain, Nor hate me when I come to call, to take him back again. I fancied that I heard them say, 'Dear Lord, thy will be done.' For all the joy this bird shall bring, the risk of grief we'll run. We'll shower him with tenderness and love while we may, And for the happiness we've known, forever grateful stay. And should the angels call for him much sooner than we planned, We'll brave the bitter grief that comes, and try to understand." If, by your love, you've managed, my wishes to achieve, In memory of him you've loved; be thankful; do not grieve. Cherish every moment of your feathered charge. He filled your home with songs of joy the time he was alive. Let not his passing take from you those memories to enjoy. "I will lend to you, a Bird", God said, and teach you all you have to do. And when I call him back to heaven, you will know he loved you too.

[@annaleon7364]

This is a beautiful poem ❤

[@jennigthatonecrazydoglady8100]

💔

[@ChaosTsuki]

I'm usually a silent watcher of your channel, I've been watching a lot lately and although these are bad news, in the end Rocko's journey will help educate people around the world. Thank you so much for being this strong, sharing your experience. Best wishes

[@cindysupplee5341]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Your sharing of all the data will help others so much, I'm just sorry it had to be under these circumstances. Rocko was an amazing bird and you were the best "bird mom" he could have ever had.

[@angiejoy3802]

My heart breaks for you. He knew he was loved, and you did the kindest thing, as unbearably painful as this is. I’m weeping helplessly for this lovely boy and his loving family 💔 I’m glad you kept the Kleenex box ❤️‍🩹

[@becgreer824]

I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful way to honor him- to use his life as a way to improve the lives of other Toucans. I also think you taught your daughter a beautiful lesson about life and caring for our pets: you don't make the choice that makes YOU feel better. You chose what is best for THEM. You have been my son's aviary idol/hero. He wants a parrot when he is older (he is 7). Thank you for teaching him as well. Sending my prayers, thoughts, and love. I know Rocko is flying high above the clouds, watching over you.

[@pearlytiger564]

Bawling my eyes out. I’m so sorry Jamie. Rocco was so lucky to have you and your family. You gave him the best life full of love and happy memories.

[@caleottestark6998]

Condolences don't seem like enough in this situation... I cried for all of you throughout this journey Jamie, and my heart breaks to know that such a tough decision had to be made. My flock and I grieve for you and also thank you and Rocko for the chance for better understanding through his data for all avians in captivity.

[@CyntheaFireFairy42]

I am now 68 years old. My younger self was heavily involved with raptor rescue. There are times when no matter what you do or how hard you fight to save one you realize you have to let go. You absolutely made the right decisions all the way. Thank you for the videos I am new to your channel. They are a gift. Thank you for all you do for the birds.

[@maryzambrana7141]

So tough to hit the like button on such a heartbreaking video. I have no doubt that Rocko knew how much you love him. Do take care 😘

[@AwsmOcean]

Losing family is and always will be painful. Rest easy, Rocko.

[@lisarivera2745]

Keeping the Kleenex box in not silly at all ❤️ Even I thought he was playing because you were there. He will always be remembered ❤️ I’m so sorry he went through this, and you guys as well. Sending sweet Capri love from our feathered friends as well 🦜.

[@Avocetexotics]

Oh Jamie, I'm so so sorry. I'm sitting here sobbing, and I never even knew him. I can't imagine how hard this is on you. I'm so proud of rocko and how hard he fought. Because of him, so many toucans lives will be made better. R.I.P. Rocko.

[@deepmiah9076]

I’m soo sorry for your loss. It’s so amazing how their tiny hearts can give soo much love ❤️. He is an angel and he will forever be with you my friend.

[@aliciamadrid8524]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I cried with you too. Thank you for taking such good care of him and giving him a good life, but most importantly, doing the humane thing to end the suffering.

[@yumi456]

I had to make the same decision for my dog 2 years ago on christmas. It was so painful, but it was the right decision. She was not responding at all and all the meds just stopped working. I feel with you. A big hug to the whole family.

[@biggusmunkusthegreat]

Awh shit :( I'm so sorry to hear this. Thank you for donating him for the sake of science - hugely honorable.

[@enviri7825]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Even as Rocko has passed on, he will forever live on in the toucans that, no doubt because of toucans like him, will continue to keep having better captive diets and healthier, longer lives in captivity.

[@highatthebeach]

Thank you for sharing with us, my heart is in my throat watching this. I'm so sorry for your loss. It's comforting to know you kept the tissue box

[@VioBlack77]

I am so sorry for your loss and send you lots of solace hugs! Pets are members of the family and I now from personal experience that losing a beloved bird hurts just as much as losing a beloved human being.

[@CassandraConnors]

Bawling my eyes out just watching this, I cannot imagine how you and your family are feeling. My heart and wishes are with you guys. So deeply sorry for your great loss

[@ИринаРоманова-с1и]

Soft and warm hugs for your family, who have been blessed with the best toucan in the world! Thank you so much for sharing your intimate story with us!

[@leetahm3460]

This is most definitely the hardest part of having pets. They make goodbyes so, so hard. Thank you for allowing us inside during such a difficult time in order to help educate. Fly high, rock star. ❤️

[@carrieannkouri2151]

Awe…I’m so sorry for your loss. We got news the same day our pug has cancer and about 4 months left. Hugs to you and your family.

[@bethvankirk]

I'm so sorry for your loss of sweet Rocko. His life was precious and it will be remembered. His passing was merciful and his person loved him very much.

[@birdbrain3594]

I'm so truly sorry for your loss, Rocko was an amazing toucan and we can see how much you loved him. Please know you did the right thing and he is in a better place. Sending healing thoughts your way, these past couple years you've had bad luck losing flock members. I hate seeing you so upset Jamie, but I know grief is an extension of love. Thank you for donating his body to science to help other toucans. 🥺💔

[@Danica.Powell]

I wasn't expecting this, he was such a strong bird. I'm so sorry but you have done amazing things for toucans and you gave him such a happy life. It sounds like Rocko is going to help many toucans and their owners in the future so he not only lives on in your heart but in all the toucans that he helps from his experience. He was so brave and he fought so hard. He was an amazing bird. Thank you for having the strength to share such a painful experience. Rocco was loved by so many, he had so much personality.

[@DandyT1990]

I am so sorry, he was such a lovely bird and I've been crying my eyes out since the beginning of the video From following your channel for a while, I'd like to thank you for your strength in sharing moments like this. It's important for us as bird owners to be able to see this. Thank you for giving his body for science, it will play an important role in helping us understand how best to care for our feathered friends His legacy will live on and I'm sure he'll be super proud of all the fantastic work you do ♥

[@Fallenfromgrace1990]

Fly high, little Rock star. You fought sooo hard. My heart truly breaks for you and your family. He left this world knowing love and knowing that he had parents that truly fought up to the last minute for him. ❤

[@kaiyakershaw1028]

I’m so sorry for your loss. May your memories bring you comfort. He knew you loved him.

[@jessicaalmquist5450]

My heart is breaking for you and your family right now. May the many beautiful memories you have with Rocko give you all comfort during this tragic time. I know all the thoughts you’re thinking and if there was a way you could have prevented this, but you couldn’t have! As an LVT (licensed vet technician), I work at this point mostly with dogs and cats, but we were educated about diabetes. It makes sense that a species so dependent on insulin could at one point become resistant to it and unable to process the constant demands of glucose as his body wasn’t getting it. I’m sure the vets have repeated this over and over (insulin drives glucose into the cell), so when a creature so heavily reliant on carbohydrates as an energy source can no longer accept it, then you run into insulin resistance. At least that is what it sounds like. When you mentioned pre-diabetic, insulin resistance is usually the step before that. It sounded like for whatever strange reason outside the control of you or anyone else, Rocko’s little body was not able to store and use the glucose he needed thus becoming reliant on extra doses of it. I have insulin resistance and I’ve been working with endocrinologists and it has been a harrowing process and no one ever wants to be diagnosed with diabetes. It’s such a scary disease and we’ve been studying it in humans for some time now. Rocko was amazing to have hung in there as long as he did which is a HUGE testament to how well you guys cared for and loved him, Jamie! Please take a small measure of comfort in that. You are so freaking brave for allowing his body to help veterinarians and other scientists to understand what happened. I know it sounds awful, but you’re saving future toucans. It sounded like he was going into DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) and his internal functions were not able to keep up with the demands of insulin and his infection. I know you’ve already said you would, but I hope you’ll share everything that comes out of this journey, as tragic as it is. And as hard as it is to edit and share this information. Rocko knows you were his heroine helping him fight beak and claw every step of the way. But once many animals reach DKA, it’s SOOOO hard to reverse. The damage on the kidneys are the worst. Please know that I am praying for you and your family. I am so so sorry. Rockstar Rocko will be missed. 💔❤️‍🩹😢🙏🏻🫂

[@jennip13]

I’m so sorry, sending big hugs to you guys… I can’t even imagine how hard this must have been, thank you so much for sharing, and helping others learn more. Our hearts are with u and your fam, from our whole fam

[@nwwwbbb]

I'm so sorry Jamie. Sending love from my side of the world. Thank you for taking the time to share everything with us despite it being so painful. Rocko, we'll miss you buddy.

[@enrico4808]

I am very sorry, they are fantastic creatures that enter our hearts forever. a hug from Italy

[@LovebirdLoft]

Omg so sorry for your loss. I am literally crying right now. You can see how much that bird loved you. He tried to eat for you. This brings back memories of many Avian vet visits. They are so difficult sometimes. But you did all you could and the right thing, and now Rocky will be able to help other birds. Cheers from The Lovebird Loft (“)>

[@gblikestosew]

Amazed at how brave and good he was through the whole process. He was the best boy, and he will go on to improve the lives of so many other good birds. I can only pray that the suffering you all endured will go on to be worth it in some way.

[@michelhays]

I'm so, so sorry. It is so hard to lose a family member, and it's a blessing that we have the option to free them from suffering, even though it's a really hard decision to make. I was really struck by how much Rocko was taking care of you during this time - he clearly ate and played expressly to comfort you. My favorite was the look on his little face when you hugged him: he clearly doesn't prefer hugs, but clearly also felt the love in it and wanted to give that back. Such a sweet baby, it was beautiful to watch him watching you.

[@7862611577]

Oh Jamie I’m so sorry for your loss My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family 🙏

[@deidrehuckabee2933]

I’m so sorry for the loss of your wonderful boy. I am sitting here crying with you as I watch this. It breaks my heart too. I hope your family will find peace in your memories of him. He was such a special guy!

[@debbieschultz9768]

I’m so sorry for your loss and pain. He was such a beautiful bird. ❤️🙏